With Covid-19 making a comeback, a new variant ominously nicknamed “Frankenstein” is drawing attention as health authorities report a noticeable increase in cases and hospital admissions. While that is concerning, there’s another challenge: autumn colds are circulating at the same time and share similar symptoms with this new variant, making it difficult to distinguish between the two. It is important to pay close attention to specific signs and act cautiously.In the UK, the Frankenstein variant has quickly become the dominant strain nationwide. Many people experiencing common cold symptoms are unsure whether it is just an autumn cold or the new variant. According to the NHS, sniffles and sneezing could actually indicate the Frankenstein Covid strain rather than a seasonal cold, and it is spreading rapidly across the country.What Is Frankenstein New Variant?The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that the recent surge in Covid cases is linked to a new variant called XFG, nicknamed “Frankenstein” because it is a recombinant virus, containing genetic material from two Covid subtypes: LF.7 and LP.8.1.2. The WHO has been monitoring XFG since June 25, 2025, and it has now been detected in multiple countries. Current data suggest that the overall public health risk is low, and existing Covid vaccines are still expected to prevent severe illness and symptomatic infections.Frankenstein New Variant SymptomsSymptoms of the XFG variant resemble those of previous Covid strains and are usually mild, often looking like a typical cold. They include:Sore throatRunny or congested noseDry coughFatigue and body achesMild feverLoss of appetiteWhat Is Autumn Cold?An autumn cold refers to the common cold occurring during the autumn season. It is not caused by a unique virus; rather, it’s a descriptive term for the time of year. Cold and flu viruses spread more easily in cooler months, and people are more vulnerable as they spend more time indoors.Frankenstein and Autumn Cold Symptoms OverlapAs Covid XFG and seasonal colds share similar symptoms, it can be tricky to tell them apart. There is one symptom in particular, which is cough and cold, you should get tested for Covid. With the Frankenstein variant spreading quickly, it’s essential to remain vigilant, especially when experiencing respiratory symptoms that could be linked to either a virus or the flu.Research on the Frankenstein variant is still ongoing. Since it can affect people differently, taking precautions and consulting a doctor at the first sign of symptoms remain critical.Where All Is Frankenstein Virus Spreading?As of October 2025, reports indicate that the Frankenstein variant (XFG) is circulating widely across Europe, Southeast Asia, Australia, and parts of North America. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), by June 2025, XFG had already been detected in 38 countries, with the highest prevalence in the following regions:EuropeUnited Kingdom: Sometimes referred to as “Stratus,” XFG became the most common Covid strain in England by mid-2025, accounting for around 30% of infections.France: Health authorities reported an increase in Covid-related hospital visits linked to XFG in September and October 2025.Luxembourg: The variant is now the dominant strain, though officials note no evidence of increased severity.Switzerland: XFG has been detected in wastewater for several weeks. Experts say it spreads more easily but is not more dangerous than previous strains.Turkey: The variant began spreading in early October 2025.Ukraine: Reports from early October indicate the variant is spreading rapidly across Europe.North AmericaCanada: XFG has been detected in wastewater in Montreal and is spreading through Quebec.United States: Authorities are monitoring imported cases, and the variant has been reported in multiple states.
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